Welcome back, I trust you all had an enjoyable break over the Christmas and New Year period.

The start to 2012 has been a busy one, and Council has put together a diverse and exciting calendar of major and community events to run during the year.

One of our biggest events is Australia Day, and Garrison Point will once again be the backdrop for this year's celebration on Thursday 26 January 2012.

The day will begin by welcoming 12 residents as our City's newest Australian Citizens, followed by the Australia Day Awards where we honour and recognise a number of remarkable local citizens.

The main attraction of the day will be the Australia Day Concert which will begin from 4.00pm and include five hours of music, entertainment, free workshops, displays, international food and much more for the whole family to enjoy.

Iconic Aussie band, 'The Black Sorrows', will be headlining the free concert, along with some of the nation's latest sensations and local talent.

Australia Day in Bankstown would not be complete without our spectacular fireworks display which will conclude the celebrations at 9pm.

I look forward to seeing each of you at Garrison Point this year for what is promised to be a great day out for everyone to enjoy.

For further information about Bankstown's Australia Day celebrations go to www.bankstown.nsw.gov.au or call Council on 9707 9999